Experiences of Female Teachers in Elite and Non-Elite Private Schools of Pakistan

Abstract

This study examines the experiences of female teachers working in private schools in Islamabad, Pakistan. These schools were divided into two categories: elite schools and non- elite schools. This differentiation was made based on fee structure, location of schools and salaries offered to teachers. Thirty-six in-depth interviews were conducted, including 24 interviews from teachers and 12 from school principals. Additionally, the responses of 96 teachers were taken through a survey in the selected schools. The data reveals that female teachers in both elite and non-elite schools encountered numerous constraints. The major issues highlighted by the teachers included low wages, lack of support from administration, disrespectful behaviour from students and job dissatisfaction. The majority considered teaching as a temporary arrangement while they waited for better employment opportunities in other sectors. This study recommends that to rescue the profession of teaching, the state can play a role by safeguarding the rights of teachers. The focus should not be merely on privatization of the education sector but due accountability of private schools is needed not only in terms of quality of education provided, but also workplace ethics and resources provided to teachers.